Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A haptic interface, comprising: a piezoelectric body; a first electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body; a second electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body; and a control circuit, comprising: a haptic actuator circuit coupled to the first electrode and configured to charge the piezoelectric body, the charging causing the piezoelectric body to provide a haptic output; a haptic sensor circuit coupled to the second electrode and configured to sense an electrical change at the second electrode, the electrical change related to a haptic input received by the piezoelectric body; and an overcurrent protection circuit coupled to the second electrode and configured to limit a current flow into the haptic sensor circuit while the haptic actuator circuit is charging the piezoelectric body.
A haptic interface system leverages piezoelectric materials to provide both tactile feedback and input sensing. The device addresses the challenge of integrating bidirectional haptic functionality—generating vibrations for user feedback while simultaneously detecting physical interactions—without compromising performance or safety. The core component is a piezoelectric body, which deforms in response to mechanical forces and generates electrical signals, or conversely, deforms when electrically charged to produce vibrations. The system includes two electrodes coupled to the piezoelectric body. A first electrode connects to a haptic actuator circuit, which charges the piezoelectric material to induce mechanical vibrations, creating a tactile output for the user. A second electrode connects to a haptic sensor circuit, which monitors electrical changes in the piezoelectric body caused by external physical interactions, enabling input detection. To prevent sensor circuit damage during actuator operation, an overcurrent protection circuit limits current flow into the sensor circuit while the actuator charges the piezoelectric body. This design ensures reliable bidirectional haptic operation by isolating the sensing and actuation functions while maintaining real-time responsiveness. The piezoelectric body’s dual role as both an actuator and sensor simplifies the system architecture, reducing component count and cost. The overcurrent protection circuit safeguards the sensor electronics during high-power actuation phases, ensuring long-term reliability. Applications include touchscreens, wearable devices, and virtual reality controllers where compact, high-performance haptic feedback and input sensing are required.
2. The haptic interface of claim 1 , wherein the overcurrent protection circuit comprises: a transistor coupled between the second electrode and a discharge node, the transistor having a control input configured to receive a signal that causes the transistor to open or close a current path between the second electrode and the discharge node.
A haptic interface system includes an overcurrent protection circuit designed to prevent excessive current flow during operation. The circuit features a transistor connected between a second electrode and a discharge node. The transistor has a control input that receives a signal to either open or close a current path between the second electrode and the discharge node. This allows the circuit to regulate current flow, ensuring safe operation by preventing overcurrent conditions that could damage the system or cause malfunctions. The transistor acts as a switch, enabling or disabling the current path based on the control signal, which may be generated by a monitoring system or control logic within the haptic interface. This design enhances reliability and safety by dynamically managing current levels during haptic feedback operations. The overcurrent protection circuit is integrated into the haptic interface to protect components from excessive current, particularly during high-load or fault conditions. The transistor's switching function ensures that current is diverted or blocked as needed, maintaining system integrity while delivering the intended haptic feedback. This approach is particularly useful in applications where precise control of electrical current is critical to performance and longevity.
3. The haptic interface of claim 1 , wherein the overcurrent protection circuit comprises: a clamper circuit coupled between the second electrode and a discharge node.
A haptic interface system includes an overcurrent protection circuit designed to prevent excessive current flow during operation. The system operates in the domain of tactile feedback devices, where precise and controlled haptic responses are essential for user interaction. The problem addressed is the risk of damage to the haptic interface due to overcurrent conditions, which can occur during rapid actuation or electrical faults. The overcurrent protection circuit includes a clamper circuit connected between a second electrode and a discharge node. The clamper circuit regulates voltage levels to prevent excessive current from reaching the electrode, thereby protecting the system from potential damage. This circuit ensures that the haptic interface operates within safe electrical limits while maintaining the intended tactile feedback performance. The discharge node provides a path for excess current to be safely dissipated, further enhancing system reliability. The overall design ensures that the haptic interface remains functional and durable under varying operating conditions.
4. The haptic interface of claim 3 , wherein the clamper circuit comprises a forward-biased diode coupled in parallel with a reverse-biased diode.
A haptic interface system includes a clamper circuit designed to stabilize and condition electrical signals for haptic feedback devices. The clamper circuit comprises a forward-biased diode connected in parallel with a reverse-biased diode. This configuration ensures bidirectional signal clamping, allowing the circuit to regulate both positive and negative voltage swings. The forward-biased diode conducts when the input signal exceeds a reference voltage, while the reverse-biased diode conducts when the input signal falls below the reference voltage. This dual-diode arrangement prevents excessive voltage fluctuations, protecting the haptic actuator from damage while maintaining precise control over the feedback force. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring high-fidelity tactile feedback, such as virtual reality controllers, medical simulation devices, and industrial control interfaces. The clamper circuit enhances signal integrity by suppressing noise and transient spikes, ensuring consistent and reliable haptic responses. The parallel diode configuration simplifies circuit design while improving performance, making it suitable for compact and low-power applications.
5. The haptic interface of claim 1 , wherein the haptic sensor circuit comprises a sense amp, the sense amp comprising a negative input coupled to the second electrode and a positive input coupled to a discharge node.
A haptic interface system includes a haptic sensor circuit designed to detect user interactions with a touch-sensitive surface. The system addresses the challenge of accurately sensing touch inputs while minimizing interference from environmental noise and parasitic effects. The haptic sensor circuit incorporates a sense amplifier with a differential input configuration. The negative input of the sense amplifier is connected to a second electrode, which interacts with the touch-sensitive surface. The positive input of the sense amplifier is coupled to a discharge node, which helps stabilize the reference voltage and improve signal integrity. This configuration enhances sensitivity and reduces susceptibility to noise, ensuring reliable touch detection. The system may also include additional components such as a drive circuit to stimulate the touch-sensitive surface and a processing unit to interpret sensor data. The overall design aims to provide precise and responsive haptic feedback, improving user interaction in electronic devices.
6. The haptic interface of claim 5 , wherein the overcurrent protection circuit is coupled between the negative input and the positive input of the sense amp, and the positive input of the sense amp is coupled to the discharge node.
A haptic interface system includes an overcurrent protection circuit designed to prevent excessive current flow during haptic feedback operations. The system incorporates a sense amplifier with positive and negative inputs, where the overcurrent protection circuit is connected between these inputs. The positive input of the sense amplifier is also linked to a discharge node, which helps regulate current flow. The overcurrent protection circuit monitors the current and interrupts it if it exceeds a predefined threshold, ensuring safe and reliable operation of the haptic interface. This design prevents damage to the system components while maintaining the intended haptic feedback functionality. The sense amplifier detects voltage differences, and the overcurrent protection circuit ensures that these operations do not lead to excessive current draw, thereby enhancing system durability and performance. The discharge node connection allows for precise control of the current path, further improving the protection mechanism. This configuration is particularly useful in applications where haptic feedback must be both responsive and safe, such as in consumer electronics and industrial control systems.
7. The haptic interface of claim 5 , wherein the overcurrent protection circuit comprises: a transistor coupled between the negative input and the positive input of the sense amp, the transistor having a control input configured to receive a control signal that causes the transistor to open or close a current path between the negative input and the positive input of the sense amp, wherein the positive input of the sense amp is further coupled to the discharge node.
Haptic interfaces often require precise control of electrical currents to generate tactile feedback, but overcurrent conditions can damage components or degrade performance. This invention addresses the need for reliable overcurrent protection in haptic interfaces by incorporating a transistor-based protection circuit within the sense amplifier (sense amp) of the interface. The circuit includes a transistor connected between the negative and positive inputs of the sense amp, with a control input that regulates the transistor's state. When activated, the transistor opens or closes a current path between the inputs, effectively controlling current flow to prevent overcurrent conditions. The positive input of the sense amp is also coupled to a discharge node, allowing excess current to be safely diverted. This design ensures that the haptic interface operates within safe current limits while maintaining responsiveness and durability. The transistor's control signal can be dynamically adjusted to adapt to varying operating conditions, providing flexible and robust protection against overcurrent events. This solution is particularly useful in applications where precise haptic feedback is critical, such as in consumer electronics, medical devices, or industrial control systems.
8. The haptic interface of claim 7 , wherein the haptic actuator circuit comprises: a second transistor coupled between the first electrode and a power source, the second transistor having a second control input configured to receive a second control signal that causes the second transistor to open or close a second current path between the first electrode and the power source; and a third transistor coupled between the first electrode and the discharge node, the transistor having a third control input configured to receive a third control signal that causes the third transistor to open or close a third current path between the first electrode and the discharge node.
A haptic interface system includes a haptic actuator circuit designed to control the flow of current to a haptic actuator, such as an electrostatic actuator, to generate tactile feedback. The circuit addresses the challenge of precisely controlling the actuator's operation by using multiple transistors to manage current paths. The system includes a first transistor coupled between a first electrode of the actuator and a discharge node, where the first transistor's control input receives a first control signal to open or close a first current path. Additionally, a second transistor is coupled between the first electrode and a power source, with its control input receiving a second control signal to open or close a second current path. A third transistor is coupled between the first electrode and the discharge node, with its control input receiving a third control signal to open or close a third current path. This configuration allows for independent control of charging and discharging the actuator, enabling precise and responsive haptic feedback. The system ensures efficient energy management and rapid response times, improving the performance of haptic devices in applications such as virtual reality, touchscreens, and wearable devices.
9. The haptic interface of claim 5 , wherein the overcurrent protection circuit comprises: a charge integration capacitor coupled between the negative input of the sense amp and an output of the sense amp.
A haptic interface system includes an overcurrent protection circuit designed to prevent excessive current flow in a haptic actuator, such as a voice coil motor (VCM) or linear resonant actuator (LRA). The system monitors current through the actuator and disables the drive signal if an overcurrent condition is detected. The overcurrent protection circuit includes a sense amplifier with a negative input and an output, and a charge integration capacitor connected between the negative input and the output of the sense amplifier. This capacitor integrates the sensed current over time, allowing the sense amplifier to detect sustained overcurrent conditions. When the integrated voltage exceeds a threshold, the circuit triggers a shutdown mechanism to protect the actuator and associated electronics. The system ensures reliable haptic feedback while preventing damage from excessive current draw, which can occur due to mechanical jamming, short circuits, or other faults. The charge integration capacitor enhances detection accuracy by smoothing transient current spikes, ensuring only sustained overcurrent conditions trigger protection. This design is particularly useful in portable devices where compact, efficient, and robust haptic feedback is required.
10. The haptic interface of claim 9 , further comprising: an integrated charge discharge circuit coupled to the charge integration capacitor, the integrated charge discharge circuit having a control input configured to receive a control signal that causes the integrated charge discharge circuit to discharge a charge integrated by the charge integration capacitor.
A haptic interface system includes a charge integration capacitor that accumulates charge from a piezoelectric element, which generates electrical energy in response to mechanical deformation. The system converts this mechanical energy into electrical energy for powering the haptic interface, reducing or eliminating the need for an external power source. The charge integration capacitor stores the generated charge, which can then be used to drive actuators or other components of the haptic interface. An integrated charge discharge circuit is coupled to the charge integration capacitor and includes a control input that receives a control signal. When activated, this control signal triggers the charge discharge circuit to release the stored charge from the capacitor, allowing the energy to be utilized by the haptic interface. This design enables efficient energy harvesting and management within the haptic interface, improving its self-sufficiency and operational reliability. The system is particularly useful in applications where continuous power supply is challenging, such as wearable devices or remote sensors. The integrated charge discharge circuit ensures controlled discharge of the stored energy, preventing overcharging and optimizing energy usage.
11. The haptic interface of claim 5 , further comprising: a digital sampling circuit coupled to an output of the sense amp.
A haptic interface system includes a sense amplifier that detects physical interactions, such as touch or pressure, and converts them into electrical signals. The system further includes a digital sampling circuit connected to the output of the sense amplifier. This digital sampling circuit captures and processes the analog signals from the sense amplifier, converting them into digital data for further analysis or control. The digital sampling circuit may include analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) components to digitize the signals, allowing the system to interpret and respond to haptic inputs with precision. The haptic interface may also incorporate additional components, such as a signal conditioning circuit, to enhance the quality of the detected signals before they reach the digital sampling circuit. The overall system enables accurate detection and processing of physical interactions, improving the responsiveness and functionality of haptic feedback devices in applications like touchscreens, virtual reality controllers, or medical devices. The digital sampling circuit ensures that the haptic data is accurately captured and transmitted for real-time processing, enhancing user experience and system performance.
12. A haptic interface, comprising: a piezoelectric body; a first electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body; a second electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body; and a control circuit, comprising: a haptic actuator circuit coupled to the first electrode and configured to maintain a charge on the piezoelectric body, the charge causing the piezoelectric body to provide a haptic output; and a haptic sensor circuit coupled to the second electrode and configured to sense an electrical change at the second electrode while the piezoelectric body is charged, the electrical change related to a haptic input received by the piezoelectric body.
Haptic interfaces enable tactile feedback and input detection, improving user interaction with devices. Traditional systems often require separate components for actuation and sensing, increasing complexity and cost. A piezoelectric haptic interface integrates both functions into a single device. The system includes a piezoelectric body with two electrodes. A control circuit manages actuation and sensing. The haptic actuator circuit applies a charge to the piezoelectric body via the first electrode, causing mechanical deformation for haptic feedback. Simultaneously, the haptic sensor circuit monitors the second electrode for electrical changes induced by external forces on the piezoelectric body, enabling input detection. This dual-function design reduces component count and improves efficiency by using the piezoelectric body for both feedback and sensing. The system is suitable for applications requiring compact, responsive haptic interfaces, such as touchscreens, wearables, and virtual reality controllers. The piezoelectric material's inherent properties allow for precise control and rapid response, enhancing user experience.
13. A method of operating a haptic interface, comprising: charging a piezoelectric body of the haptic interface to deliver a haptic output; limiting a current flow into a haptic sensor circuit while charging the piezoelectric body; and monitoring for a haptic input to the piezoelectric body using the haptic sensor circuit while the piezoelectric body is charged; wherein limiting the current flow into the haptic sensor circuit comprises diverting at least a portion of the current flow from into the haptic sensor circuit to a discharge node.
This invention relates to haptic interfaces, specifically addressing the challenge of simultaneously delivering haptic feedback and sensing user input through a piezoelectric body. The method involves charging a piezoelectric body to generate haptic output while ensuring accurate input detection. A key issue is that charging the piezoelectric body can introduce noise or interference into the haptic sensor circuit, which is used to detect user interactions. To mitigate this, the method limits current flow into the haptic sensor circuit by diverting at least part of the current to a discharge node. This allows the sensor circuit to monitor for haptic input from the piezoelectric body even while it is actively charged, ensuring reliable input detection without compromising the haptic feedback experience. The approach improves the performance of haptic interfaces by maintaining signal integrity during both actuation and sensing phases, which is critical for applications requiring precise touch feedback and input detection, such as virtual reality controllers, touchscreens, or medical devices. The discharge node acts as a controlled path for excess current, preventing interference while preserving the sensor circuit's ability to detect mechanical deformations or forces applied to the piezoelectric body.
14. The method of claim 13 , further comprising: monitoring for the haptic input while charging the piezoelectric body.
A method for generating haptic feedback using a piezoelectric body involves applying a voltage to the piezoelectric body to induce mechanical deformation, thereby producing tactile sensations. The method includes monitoring for haptic input signals during the charging phase of the piezoelectric body. This ensures that the piezoelectric body can respond to user interactions even while being energized, allowing for real-time feedback. The piezoelectric body is typically integrated into a device, such as a touchscreen or wearable, where it deforms in response to electrical stimulation to create vibrations or other tactile effects. The monitoring step ensures that the system remains responsive to user inputs, enhancing the user experience by providing immediate haptic responses. The method may also include controlling the voltage applied to the piezoelectric body to adjust the intensity or pattern of the haptic feedback, allowing for customizable tactile sensations. This approach improves the efficiency and responsiveness of haptic feedback systems in electronic devices.
15. The method of claim 13 , wherein diverting at least the portion of the current flow from into the haptic sensor circuit to the discharge node comprises: applying a control signal to a transistor.
A method for managing current flow in a haptic sensor circuit involves diverting at least a portion of the current from the haptic sensor circuit to a discharge node. This diversion is achieved by applying a control signal to a transistor, which regulates the current flow. The haptic sensor circuit is part of a system designed to detect and respond to tactile inputs, such as touch or pressure, by generating haptic feedback. The diversion of current helps manage power consumption, reduce noise, or improve signal integrity in the sensor circuit. The transistor acts as a switch or variable resistor, controlled by the applied signal to adjust the current flow dynamically. This method ensures efficient operation of the haptic sensor by preventing excessive current buildup or unwanted interactions with other circuit components. The control signal can be generated based on sensor readings, system requirements, or predefined conditions to optimize performance. The overall system may include additional components like amplifiers, filters, or microcontrollers to process and interpret the sensor data, but the core innovation focuses on the controlled diversion of current to enhance haptic sensor functionality.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the transistor is coupled between a first input and a second input of the haptic sensor circuit.
A haptic sensor circuit includes a transistor coupled between a first input and a second input of the circuit. The transistor is configured to selectively connect or disconnect the first input from the second input based on a control signal. This configuration allows the circuit to modulate the electrical path between the inputs, enabling dynamic adjustment of the sensor's sensitivity or response characteristics. The transistor may be a field-effect transistor (FET) or another type of switching device, and its operation is controlled by an external signal to alter the circuit's behavior in real-time. This feature enhances the adaptability of the haptic sensor, allowing it to respond to varying input conditions or user interactions with improved precision. The circuit may further include additional components, such as amplifiers, filters, or signal conditioning elements, to process the sensor output and provide a refined haptic feedback signal. The transistor's placement between the inputs ensures minimal signal distortion while maintaining the ability to dynamically reconfigure the circuit's operation. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring adjustable haptic feedback, such as touchscreens, gaming controllers, or wearable devices, where responsiveness and customization are critical.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the first input is coupled to an electrode attached to the piezoelectric body, and the second input is coupled to the discharge node.
A method for managing energy in a piezoelectric system involves controlling the flow of electrical energy generated by a piezoelectric body. The piezoelectric body converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is then processed to optimize energy storage or discharge. The method includes a first input connected to an electrode attached to the piezoelectric body and a second input connected to a discharge node. The first input receives electrical energy generated by the piezoelectric body, while the second input manages the discharge of stored energy. The system may include a switching mechanism to regulate the flow of energy between the piezoelectric body and the discharge node, ensuring efficient energy transfer and preventing overcharging or excessive discharge. The method may also involve monitoring the voltage or current levels at the inputs to adjust the switching mechanism dynamically. This approach enhances the reliability and efficiency of piezoelectric energy harvesting systems by providing precise control over energy storage and discharge processes.
18. The method of claim 13 , wherein diverting at least the portion of the current flow from into the haptic sensor circuit to the discharge node comprises: automatically diverting at least the portion of the current flow based on a parameter of a diode.
A method for managing current flow in an electronic system, particularly in haptic feedback applications, addresses the challenge of efficiently controlling current diversion to enhance haptic sensor performance. The method involves diverting at least a portion of the current flow from a haptic sensor circuit to a discharge node. This diversion is automatically triggered based on a parameter of a diode, such as its forward voltage drop or reverse breakdown voltage, ensuring precise and responsive current management. The diode parameter acts as a threshold, enabling the system to dynamically adjust current flow to optimize haptic feedback while preventing excessive power dissipation or sensor damage. The method may also include monitoring the diode parameter in real-time to ensure accurate diversion timing. This approach improves energy efficiency and extends the lifespan of haptic sensors by preventing overcurrent conditions. The technique is particularly useful in portable devices where power management is critical. The diode parameter-based diversion ensures reliable operation under varying load conditions, enhancing the overall performance and durability of haptic feedback systems.
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April 14, 2020
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